The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has opened a public inquiry to gather information about possible false or unsupported claims regarding “gender-affirming care” for minors. The agency is seeking input from the public, including written data, advertisements, social media posts, disclosures, and empirical research that may be relevant to its review.
On July 9, 2025, the FTC held a workshop focused on unfair or deceptive trade practices related to gender-affirming care for minors. During the event, testimony was provided by doctors, medical ethicists, whistleblowers, detransitioners, and parents of detransitioners. According to the FTC, "That testimony indicated that practitioners of 'gender-affirming care' may be actively deceiving consumers."
The commission aims to determine whether consumers—especially minors—have suffered harm and if medical professionals or others have violated Sections 5 and 12 of the FTC Act. These sections prohibit unfair or deceptive acts or practices and false advertising. The FTC stated: "Against this backdrop, the FTC seeks to evaluate whether consumers (in particular, minors) have been harmed and whether medical professionals or others may have violated Sections 5 and 12 of the FTC Act by failing to disclose material risks associated with 'gender-affirming care' or making false or unsubstantiated claims about the benefits or effectiveness of 'gender-affirming care.' The FTC has a long history of bringing enforcement actions in this area and is uniquely positioned to investigate this potentially unlawful activity."
Members of the public have until September 26, 2025, to submit comments at Regulations.gov. Comments will be made available online after submission. Those wishing to provide confidential information should follow alternative guidelines outlined in the Request for Information.
The FTC continues its mission to promote competition and protect consumers. The agency advises that it will never demand money or make threats as part of its communications. More information on consumer issues can be found at consumer.ftc.gov. Reports about fraud or bad business practices can be submitted at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
